Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine procedure performed to address issues like impaction, crowding, or infection. While it is a common oral surgery, patients often wonder about the recovery process, particularly regarding bleeding. Understanding what to expect and how to manage the post-operative period can help ensure a smooth healing experience.
Expected Bleeding After Extraction
Initial bleeding after wisdom tooth removal is normal, as blood vessels are disrupted. Heaviest bleeding subsides within 2 to 4 hours. During this time, a blood clot forms in the socket, essential for healing and protecting bone and nerves.
After the initial period, light oozing or a pinkish tint in saliva is common for up to 24 to 48 hours. This often looks more significant than it is, due to the mixing of a small amount of blood with saliva. Minor bleeding or oozing can persist for up to a week or two, but should gradually decrease. Factors like extraction complexity (e.g., impacted tooth, bone removal) can influence bleeding duration and amount. Health conditions, including bleeding disorders or anticoagulant medications, also affect bleeding duration.
Managing Bleeding at Home
Managing bleeding at home promotes comfortable recovery and healing. Apply firm pressure to the extraction site with a clean gauze pad to control bleeding. Fold gauze into a small square and bite down on it over the surgical area for 30 to 60 minutes, replacing it if saturated. Pressure helps form a stable blood clot, preventing complications like dry socket.
A moistened black tea bag can be used if bleeding persists, as black tea contains tannic acid, a natural coagulant. Place the damp tea bag over the extraction site and bite down gently for 30 to 45 minutes. Keep your head elevated with pillows, especially when resting or sleeping, to reduce blood pressure at the wound site and minimize bleeding.
To avoid dislodging the blood clot and prolonging bleeding or causing dry socket, avoid certain actions. Refrain from spitting, rinsing your mouth vigorously, or drinking through a straw for at least the first 24 hours. Avoid smoking or tobacco products for at least 72 hours, as they impair healing and increase complication risk. Limit strenuous physical activity for the first 24 to 48 hours, as increased blood flow can restart bleeding. Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days, and avoid hot liquids, alcohol, and crunchy or chewy foods that might irritate the site or dislodge the clot.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some bleeding is a normal part of the recovery, certain signs indicate that the bleeding is not typical and requires professional evaluation. Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience heavy, persistent bright red bleeding that does not stop or significantly slow down after applying direct pressure with gauze for several hours. Bleeding that continues to be heavy beyond the first 24 hours, especially if it soaks through gauze quickly or involves large clots, warrants attention.
Other indicators that suggest a potential complication include severe pain that worsens after the first few days or is not relieved by prescribed pain medication, as this could signal an issue like a dry socket or infection. Signs of infection, such as fever (especially over 101°F), pus or unusual discharge from the extraction site, increasing swelling that spreads beyond the immediate area, or a persistent bad taste or foul odor in your mouth, also necessitate immediate contact with your dental professional. If you experience lasting numbness or tingling around your lips, tongue, or chin for longer than expected, or have difficulty swallowing or breathing, seek prompt medical advice.